How to Replace a Spin Bearing on a Maytag

Unplug the Maytag washer from the grounded electrical outlet to prevent injury during the bearing replacement process. Find the hot and cold water supply valves on the wall behind the machine; rotate the valves to the "Off/Closed" position.

Detach the water supply and drain hoses from the rear washer panel. Pinch the clamp on the drain hose, using a pair of pliers, and pull the hose off of its port. Turn the screw clamps on the hot and cold water supply lines to disconnect them. Drain the water trapped in the hoses into a bucket.

Open the washer lid to access the agitator assembly. Press down on the fabric softener dispenser, then pull straight up to separate it from the agitator, if applicable to your Maytag washer model. Work a small flat-head screwdriver under the edge of the agitator cap; lift the screwdriver to pop the cap off the top of the assembly. Hold the assembly at its base and remove the bolt and washer at the top of the agitator, using a 7/16-inch socket wrench. Remove the agitator assembly from the tub.

Slide the washer forward and tip it back onto the rear panel. Pad the floor underneath the rear panel with an old towel or tarp. The washer is heavy and unwieldy; use two people to tip it back if necessary to avoid injury.

Find the motor and transmission assemblies on the underside of the machine. Disconnect the retaining clips holding the pump to the motor shaft; lift the tabs using a flat-head screwdriver. Wiggle the pump off of the shaft and push it to the left or right of the motor assembly; do not disconnect the two pump hoses.

Squeeze and pull the plastic wiring connectors to detach them from the motor assembly wiring harness. Open the retaining clip on the motor base and unhook the wiring.

Use a 1/2-inch socket wrench to remove the bolts on the transmission gear case. Pull the motor and transmission assemblies out of the bottom of the washer cabinet. Place the removed assemblies on an old towel.

Locate the flat, round spin bearing at the base of the motor shaft. Note the orientation of the bearing and remove it from the shaft. Slip the replacement spin bearing onto the shaft and push it to the base.